Questions about Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is an analloy comprising iron, chromium, nickel and carbon. Stainless steel contains at least10.5% chromium and a maximum of 1.2% carbon.
The chromium provides an invisible layer of chromium oxide and protects the underlying metal from oxidation (rust). Repairs for damage to the layer itself.

Contrary to what its name suggests, stainless steel can rust.

When conditions are tough enough (chlorine, salts, chemicals …), corrosion can occur. This usually occurs at damage to the oxidation layer or by implantation of other metals in the surface or where dirt is concentrated in cracks and crevices. Also condensation (acid rain) may provide long-term rust. Therefore it is advisable to regularly clean exterior railings with a damp wash cloth.

The building industry is using mostly stainless steel 304 or 316 (AISI 304/316). Stainless steel 304 contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel. Stainless steel 316 contains 16% chromium, 10% nickel and 2% molybdenum. Stainless steel 316 is more expensive and more resistant to salt corrosion and is used mainly in the chemical industry.

A common mistake is the use of untreated stainless steel on the coast. Even stainless steel 316 is not a good solution for that. Up to +/- 20 km from the coast we advise to use electrochemical polished stainless steel. For all other applications (except in corrosive environments) is 304 or 316 stainless steel, sanded with a finegrain, enough.

For the production of new stainless steel, up to 80% scrap is used. Stainless steel is 100% recyclable. Because stainless steel is not painted, it should not be removed at recycling, as opposed to painted, galvanized or plated steel. The durability of stainless steel is much longer than other metals, because of the high corrosion resistance. These characteristics taken into account, stainless steel is one of the most environmentally friendly construction materials.

In electropolishing, the treated parts hanging in an anodic electrolytic bath. Under the influence of electric current and chemicals, impurities and iron dissolve. The percentage of chromium and nickel on the surface greatly increases, which results in greatly improved corrosion resistance.

Chromium is a layer on the material, with a cool shine. With electropolishing the material remains visible and forms a layer of warm glow.

No. An electro-polished surface is cleaner and more passive than mechanical polishing. In addition, by mechanical polishing, microscopic contaminants are rubbed into the surface. This is why the electro-polished stainless steel is more resistant to dirt.

In electropolishing, the treated parts hanging in an anodic electrolytic bath. Under the influence of electric current and chemicals, impurities and iron dissolve. The percentage of chromium and nickel on the surface greatly increases, which results in greatly improved corrosion resistance.

Chromium is a layer on the material, with a cool shine. With electropolishing the material remains visible and forms a layer of warm glow.

No. An electro-polished surface is cleaner and more passive than mechanical polishing. In addition, by mechanical polishing, microscopic contaminants are rubbed into the surface. This is why the electro-polished stainless steel is more resistant to dirt.